Auburn Memorial Hospital's Maternity Ward To Remain Open

Auburn— In a reversal of the Berger Commission’s recommendation, New York State Senator Michael F. Nozzolio today announced that the State Department of Health will allow Auburn Memorial Hospital to continue providing maternity/ob-gyn services for the women and families of Cayuga County. AMH is scheduled to receive a state grant of $274,000 for the continued operation of the maternity unit.

The maternity ward was slated for closure based on the Berger Commission’s report that was released last year to close underutilized medical facilities. In the wake of the Commission’s report, Senator Nozzolio convened a summit meeting in Albany with AMH executives and officials at the State Department of Health to make the case that closing the obstetrics unit would pose a significant health hazard for the residents of Cayuga County.

“This is an enormous victory for the women and families that rely on the quality health care at Auburn Memorial Hospital,” said Senator Nozzolio. “AMH will continue to provide quality services in close proximity for the area’s expectant mothers, and future generations of children will continue to be born in Auburn.”

Throughout the years, Senator Nozzolio has been an ardent supporter and advocate for Auburn Memorial Hospital. In recent years, Senator Nozzolio worked to successfully secure $4.4 million in HEAL-NY funds for the hospital as well as $1 million for equipment upgrades to emergency room operations. The total amount of State aid that Senator Nozzolio has helped secure for AMH in the last two years is $5.9 million.

“Since last year, I have worked hand in hand with hospital officials to reverse the Berger Commission recommendation and I thank Governor Spitzer and Health Department officials for being responsive to the health care needs of the people in our region. This great news builds upon the many accomplishments that we have achieved over the past two years in turning around the finances of Auburn Memorial Hospital and the future is looking better and better every day,” continued Nozzolio.

AMH President Scott Berlucchi said, “We are deeply thankful for the ongoing support of Senator Michael F. Nozzolio in keeping the maternity unit open. He has been a tireless advocate for the hospital, and a good friend. With his help, we will continue to fulfill our mission to provide compassionate, quality care to our community.”

“Last year, Auburn Memorial Hospital was in danger of closing. Through hard work by Scott Berlucchi, CEO John Baran, out-going AMH Board of Directors Chairman Bob Bergan, and the dedicated staff, we have been able to save Auburn Memorial Hospital for the community. Keeping the maternity unit open will allow AMH to better serve the healthcare needs of the women and families in our region and I look forward to continuing my aggressive efforts on the behalf of AMH,” concluded Senator Nozzolio.